Race for Gunners' trio heats up as two Arsenal icons explore summer moves

Patrick Vieira is looking to raid his former club Arsenal this summer, with Genoa exploring loan deals for Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira and Albert Sambi Lokonga.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Genoa boss is turning to familiar Premier League territory as he looks to reinforce his squad ahead of the new Serie A campaign.

Vieira, who remains a legend at the Emirates, has a particular interest in Lokonga, whom he previously worked with during a loan spell at Crystal Palace. The Belgian midfielder is seen as a strong candidate to strengthen Genoa’s midfield following his season-long loan at Sevilla.

Nelson and Fabio Vieira are also on the list. Nelson spent last season at Fulham but endured a disrupted campaign due to a December hamstring injury, while Fabio Vieira returned to Porto on loan and registered five goals and five assists in Primeira Liga and cup competitions.

None of the three appear to be in Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans, and Arsenal are open to offloading them — either on loan or permanently — as sporting director Andrea Berta works to streamline the squad and raise funds for attacking reinforcements.

Genoa have already completed several deals involving Premier League players, including Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Djed Spence, and are hoping their good relationship with Arsenal can help facilitate further moves.

But Vieira may face competition from another former Gunner. Como, newly promoted to Serie A and managed by Cesc Fabregas, are reportedly monitoring the same players.

Reports describe the potential pursuit as a “challenge of charisma” between the two Arsenal icons, who must now convince the trio which project offers a better platform for their next chapter.

Vieira’s history with Lokonga could prove decisive in that particular race, with the midfielder still looking to settle after a series of short-term spells that have not delivered the consistency he desires.

Nelson, 25, could also be tempted by the prospect of a fresh start abroad after a frustrating season at Fulham, while Fabio Vieira needs regular playing time to rebuild his reputation after a difficult spell in North London.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are focusing on incomings but will also need to resolve several uncertain futures within the squad. As the summer progresses, the outcome of this battle between two club greats could shape the next destination for three of Arsenal’s forgotten names.

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